Chef Salary in Virginia
The median chef salary in Virginia is $58,781 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $56,520.
Chef Salary Overview in Virginia (2026)
Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for chef compensation. Virginia falls in the middle of the pack for chef pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $58,781 per year, chefs in Virginia earn $2,261 more than the national median of $56,520.
Virginia's cost of living is near the national average at 104%, meaning chef salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Virginia is significant: chefs at the 10th percentile earn $34,528, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $101,712 — a $67,184 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Virginia for this role is Arlington, where the median reaches $74,606.
Nationally, chef employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for chefs across the country.
Chef Salary in Virginia by Experience
In Virginia, an entry-level chef earns around $36,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $91,520 per year. The cost of living index in Virginia is 104% of the national average.
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Earning $58,781? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Virginia
| Percentile | VA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $34,528 |
| 25th Percentile | $43,888 |
| Median (50th) | $58,781 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $101,712 |
Chef Salary by City in Virginia
The largest employment areas for chefs in Virginia include Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Richmond, and Arlington. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Chef in Virginia
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Virginia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Virginia
Nationally, chef employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Virginia's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Chefs who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $32,739 over your career trajectory.
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